Although you're probably ecstatic about your next family vacation in the Caribbean, packing for your luxury travel escape might be stressing you out. While there are certainly lots of items your family will want to bring on their Beach Bum Vacation, there are a few things you shouldn't forget to pack.
The right documents When traveling to the Caribbean, there are a few documents that you must bring with you. For example, you'll need to make sure you & your family members have a valid passport, driver's license or other form of photo identification. At the same time, you'll need to have your airline tickets & boarding passes. As traveling through the airport with your whole family can often be hectic, make sure all of these documents are easily accessible when you get to the airport.
Airplane activities You & your spouse may not mind spending a few hours on a plane – after all, it gives you time to catch up on some reading. However, that does not mean your kids will feel the same way. To make your trip to the Caribbean as enjoyable as possible, pack plenty of activities for them in your carry-on bag, whether it's sticker books, playing cards, an iPad or an MP3 player. If your child has a special item that soothes them, like a teddy bear or a pacifier, make sure you bring it along, too.
Along the same lines, remember that many airlines no longer serve food for free on board, aside from a small beverage & a bag of pretzels. If you're embarking on a long flight, it's always a good idea to bring your own snacks in case the kids get fussy.
Sunshine essentials The beach will probably be a big part of your family vacation in the Caribbean, so don't forget the essentials! You should have at least two bathing suits per person (so that no one has to wear a wet, soggy bathing suit from the day before) as well as sandals & sunglasses. However, remember to keep your kids safe from the hot Caribbean sun with plenty of sunblock & protective hats. At the same time, you should research the beaches you plan on visiting in advance to see if there's anything else you should bring. For example, if you're heading to a rockier beach, carrying along water shoes can be a great idea, especially for your younger children. If beaches have ample snorkeling opportunities offshore, bringing your own snorkel can save you the cost of renting one.
Cool weather clothes On rainy days or at night, it can sometimes be a bit chilly in the Caribbean. At these times, you & your family may want a light sweater or sweatshirt. While you probably don't want to waste too much suitcase room with these bulky items, it's easy enough to wear them to the airport – planes tend to be a little cool, anyway.
Just-in-case items There are a few items you should bring with you, just in case something goes wrong. For example, it's smart to carry along a small first aid kit, especially when traveling with children. Many parents also swear by zip-lock bags, which allow them to store anything from wet bathing suits to loose crayons to liquid toiletries. You should also bring any medications your child might need, whether it's aspirin or allergy medication.
